Written by Darilyn Hackett – NELA Principal
This past summer, Nueva Esperanza Leadership Academy (NELA) celebrated its largest graduating class to date with eleven students. During the 8th graduation ceremony, each student delivered a speech they had thoughtfully prepared. They had been put to the task of reflecting on themselves, their spiritual gifts, their time at NELA, servant leadership, and their future. No easy task, but each rose to the occasion in beautiful ways—reflected in the tone and words of their writings were their individual personalities, which shone through with honesty and bravery. I was so proud of each of them! They used scriptural reference to support their thoughts—a really great opportunity to once again see the Bible as a useful guide for their lives. Many of the scriptures they chose spoke to the way we should treat other people.
A notable example can be drawn from the experience of a recent graduate— “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself” (Philippians 2:3). She also spoke about the necessity of self-love. Their speeches revealed connections to other people and themselves, positive outlooks toward community, and gratefulness for family. Most of these students we have had for the past three years, and it was so special to hear how they felt they had become better during their time at NELA.
Another graduate said, “The Godly traits that define me are hardworking, principled, and adventurous. I want to have a positive impact on the world, and I am confident that I can use these traits to achieve my goals beyond NELA. While my project is unknown, I will go wherever God leads me.” As the Bible says, ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is in Jesus Christ you are serving’ (Colossians 3: 23-24). This verse is about the effort you put into your work, and whatever work you are doing, do it for God.”
It was also beautiful to hear the number of students who thanked NELA, in general, as well as specific staff members and their parents for their contributions to their lives. Overall, the students showed confidence, self-efficacy, and growth mindset in these speeches as well as a sense of being a beloved child of God. There was such satisfaction as the students were holistically discussing their own personal growth during their time at NELA—and not just their academic growth.
As we celebrate this group of 8th graders stepping into the world, we also welcome a new cohort of servant leaders into NELA this Fall.
NELA Staff have been actively preparing for the upcoming academic year, ensuring that everything is in place for a successful start. This year, NELA proudly welcomed 47 students from 37 families, each bringing their own unique backgrounds and strengths to the NELA family. It’s an exciting time as we look forward to fostering growth, learning, and collaboration in the months ahead.
What strategies or activities are you using to enhance your child’s learning and support their overall development?
NELA’s Purpose:
NELA’s purpose is fivefold; for all students to read on grade level by 3rd grade, to complete pre-algebra by 8th grade, to be academically ready for high school level English, science and history; to graduate with a plan for the future, including pathways and agency; and to use the gifts and capacities to serve others in the example of Jesus Christ as servant leader.
